Compact MR-compatible DC-DC converter module

Abstract

The SAFIR collaboration is developing a high rate positron emission tomography insert for a preclinical 7 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device. To meet the desired performance figures, a large number of readout channels (≈15000) and integration of data digitisation into the insert are required. Consequently, the insert will consume about 1.3 kW of input power at low voltages (⩽ 3.3 V). This corresponds to large supply currents of several 100 A, requiring heavy and bulky supply cables. To overcome these problems we developed a compact and MR-compatible DC-DC stepdown converter module. Our converter is based on an air core inductor and is optimised for low electromagnetic emissions. It has an input voltage range from 6 V to 24 V and provides an adjustable output voltage from 1 V almost up to the input voltage. The maximum continuous output current is 6 A. We measured conversion efficiencies between 70% and 87% depending on output load and input voltage. For the operation conditions foreseen (16 V input voltage, 2.4 V output voltage and 3 A output current), we achieved an efficiency of 83.8%. Our tests inside the MRI demonstrated the compatibility between the MRI system and the step-down converters developed. No mutual interference was observed. The signal-to-noise ratio of the MRI remains unaltered, independent of the activity of the step-down converter under any operation condition and no effect on the operation of the DC-DC converter was observed. This successful test of an MR-compatible DC-DC converter creates new opportunities for the power supply of complex hardware inside an MRI. 49 of the DC-DC converters will be used in our SAFIR PET insert, but they can also be used in other applications with high power demand in environments with strong magnetic fields.